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An application, commonly referred to as an app, is software that allows you to exchange information with customers and help them complete tasks efficiently.
Applications can be categorized based on their development methods and internal operations:
- Web apps are applications that run through an internet browser, meaning users do not need to install them on their devices.
- Native apps are specifically developed for a particular platform or device. Users must install the appropriate version of the software on their devices.
- Hybrid apps are native applications that have an embedded web browser within them.
Why Are There Different Types of Applications?
The development of software applications began alongside the advent of computers. When desktop and personal computers were the only available devices, companies installed applications within their organizations or in their data centers, delivering functionalities through corporate networks.
Most early applications followed a ‘client-server architecture’, where an on-premise server handled centralized data storage and processing, while users had to install a separate client application on their devices. These client applications would communicate with the server.
Different versions of the client application had to be developed and installed for various platforms. For example, Windows-based machines required a different version than Linux-based machines.
The Evolution of Web Apps and Mobile Apps
With the rise of the internet, servers and clients could be located anywhere in the world. This led to the emergence of web applications, allowing companies to reach a wider user base with greater flexibility. Instead of installing a client application, users could now directly access the server’s functionality through a web browser.
Simultaneously, the development of mobile devices introduced new platforms for delivering applications. This gave users more options for accessing software functionality, whether through a browser or by installing an app on their preferred device.
For example:
– A web app for users who prefer to work through a browser.
– Windows and macOS applications for desktop users.
– Android applications for mobile users on Android devices.
– iOS applications for users on Apple devices.
Summary: When to Choose a Web App, Hybrid App, or Native App?
Many large companies use a combination of native, hybrid, and web apps to reach the broadest customer base possible. However, to determine the best type of application for a specific use case, consider the following factors:
- Time to Market – Early-stage startups often choose web apps to quickly launch a minimum viable product (MVP) for customers. Native and hybrid apps typically require more time, planning, and effort to deploy.
- Customer Needs – Some products and services cater to a large user base that primarily relies on mobile apps for their daily tasks. In such cases, native apps are more desirable than hybrid or web apps.
- Marketing Strategy – Some companies align their app development projects closely with their marketing goals. They may use ‘progressive web apps (PWAs) to reach the largest possible audience and maximize initial sign-ups. Web apps may offer limited functionality or free trials of full features for a limited period. Companies then use native or hybrid mobile apps to enhance the payment and subscription experience.
- Complexity – In some cases, the complexity of mobile app functionality necessitates hybrid or native app development to meet specific requirements. For example, mobile banking apps require native features such as fingerprint authentication for security.
Source: aws.amazon.com/th